Permanency

This research brief focuses on social network characteristics as important determinants of social and health experience and outcomes for YYA experiencing homelessness. It shares recommendations from the research to help programs work with their young people to strengthen these key relationships. (author abstract modified)

This policy brief from Chapin Hall explores how young people leave foster care among those who first enter care between ages 13 and 17. The researchers used data from a longitudinal foster care archive of approximately 3 million children nationwide. They analyzed reasons for leaving care by age at first admission and by placement history. They found that age at entry and placement history are both linked to youth outcomes. For example, teenagers who first enter care at age 15 have the highest chance of running away and are less likely to reach permanency than those who entered care earlier in their adolescence, in part because they are more likely to reach the age of majority while in care. Similarly, the types and configuration of placements and the number of placement changes affect the chances of youth reaching permanency or running away while in foster care.

This report looks at the relationship between extended foster care and young adult outcomes. The researchers analyzed data from three national datasets on foster care history, independent living services, and extended foster care. They found that extended foster care is associated with better young adult outcomes and receipt of independent youth services. Despite the low rates of utilization in many states, extended foster care appears to benefit young people as they transition to adulthood. (author abstract modified)

This brief from the Children’s Bureau provides information for child welfare professionals about the importance of permanency planning for youth. This planning should include both legal permanency, such as decisions about reunification versus adoption, and relational permanency, such as identifying caring adults in the youth’s life. These adults may provide long-term support that can help youth transition to adulthood and may become a legal permanent option. The brief covers current federal legislation that supports youth permanency as well as strategies for permanency planning with youth. These include involving youth in permanency planning, strengthening reunification services, and helping youth maintain or establish relationships with kin.

This brief summarizes how a Youth At-Risk of Homelessness (YARH) grantee in Colorado developed an intervention model to prevent and address homelessness among transition-age youth. The authors describe the Pathways to Success model as an intensive, youth-driven case management approach designed for youth ages 14 to 21 who are currently in foster care, preparing to age out, or have already aged out and become homeless. Furthermore, the model uses a coach-like engagement method adapted from the Co-Active Life Coaching model originally designed for adult and college student populations. The authors discuss key considerations and lessons learned to guide other states and local jurisdictions as they develop transition-age youth interventions. (author abstract modified)